As per the last info. published on the UKBA website (that's been taken off since the new govt. was sworn in), migrants covered by HSMP JR (as you) will not be affected by the new immigration changes (probationary citizenship).
Migrants who applied to the highly skilled migrant programme between 3 April 2006 and 7 November 2006
This page explains the arrangements we have put in place for migrants who:
* received an HSMP approval letter on the basis of an application submitted between 3 April 2006 and 7 November 2006, and obtained entry clearance or permission to stary in the United Kingdom (also called 'leave to remain' or LtR) on the basis of that letter;
*
have completed at least five years' continuous residence in the United Kingdom in a qualifying category; and
*
want to apply to settle in the United Kingdom.
You fall into this group if:
*
you were initially granted entry clearance or permission to stay in the United Kingdom for two years under the HSMP requirements; and
*
you then extended that initial permission by a further three years (unless you had already completed sufficient continuous residence in a different immigration route which can be amalgamated for settlement purposes).
When you have completed at least five years' continuous residence in the United Kingdom in a qualifying category, you can apply for settlement using the SET(O) application form. You can download the application form and guidance notes from the right side of this page.
We will consider your application against the settlement requirements described in paragraph 27 of the policy document, which you can download from the right side of this page. To be granted settlement, you will need to have spent a continuous period of five years lawfully in the United Kingdom in a qualifying category. However, you will not need to meet the 'knowledge of language and life in the United Kingdom' requirement, as this was not part of the settlement requirements when you first applied under the HSMP.
Please note that, if your application falls for refusal under the General Grounds for Refusal in paragraphs 320-322 of the Immigration Rules, we will refuse it even if it otherwise qualifies under the terms of this policy. This might happen, for example, if you have broken United Kingdom immigration law or have a criminal conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
*
How are dependants affected?
Close Dependant status will follow that of the principal applicant.
Application forms
Application for permanent residence in the United Kingdom in an employment or other category listed on the form
* Form SET(O) PDF 537KB opens in a new window
* Guide SET(O) PDF 276KB opens in a new window
* Photo guidance (new)PDF 325KB opens in a new window
Just for the information as UKBA still has this on their website. So, HSMP migrants prior to Nov 2006. Just chill. Probationary citizenship seems unlikely as all the laws of previous government have been overturned.
Cheers buddy.
